Online Reporter
Melissa Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Miss Universe Zimbabwe organisers are brimming with confidence that the country’s representative, Lyshanda Moyas, will make Zimbabwe proud at the global contest set for November 21 in Bangkok, Thailand.
The 26-year-old beauty queen, who hails from the Midlands province, departed from Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Wednesday afternoon and arrived in Thailand yesterday ahead of the official boot camp.
Speaking at the airport, the national director of Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Tendai Hunda, said the team has gained valuable experience over the years and is optimistic about Lyshanda’s chances.
“This is our third year on the Miss Universe stage, and we’ve learnt so much from Brooke Bruk-Jackson (Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2023) and Sakhile Dube (Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2024). What we have now is a combination of all that experience,” said Hunda.
She added that Lyshanda is well-prepared for the global contest, having undergone months of rigorous training and grooming.
“We’ve prepared Lyshanda’s speech thoroughly. She received intensive mentorship from Mr Gombera (a banker and life coach), and she’s ready for both onstage and closed-door interviews. Her walk and stage presence have also been refined under expert guidance, so we’re confident she’s ready,” Hunda said.
Hunda said Lyshanda’s participation carries a broader mission, to promote Brand Zimbabwe on the world stage.
“Lyshanda is not only representing herself but the entire nation. She’s ready to tell Zimbabwe’s story, to correct misconceptions about our modelling industry, and to showcase our country as a safe, beautiful and investment-friendly destination,” she said.
“She embodies the spirit of Zimbabwe and carries the mantra of our nation and our President wherever she goes.”
With preparations complete and national pride running high, all eyes are now on Bangkok, where Lyshanda will join contestants from across the globe in vying for the coveted Miss Universe crown.
